Electrical — FAQ
What amperage switch do electricians need for commercial jobs?
Use 20A switches for commercial lighting and fan circuits per NEC 404.14. The GE Heavy-Duty 20A switch meets this requirement and handles motor loads. For residential, 15A is standard unless the circuit is 20A-rated.
Self-grounding clip vs. grounding screw—which is better?
Self-grounding clips speed up metal box installations by 30% and eliminate pigtails. Use grounding screws for plastic old-work boxes where clips can't bond. Inspectors accept both if properly installed.
Can I use a 15A switch on a 20A circuit?
No. NEC prohibits undersized switches on higher-rated circuits. A 15A switch on a 20A breaker risks overheating and failed inspections. Always match switch rating to the circuit breaker.
Are back-wire terminals reliable for heavy loads?
Quality back-wire clamps like GE's hold #10 AWG securely and outperform push-in terminals. Torque screws to spec. Avoid cheap switches with spring-clamp back-wires—they loosen under load and cause arcing.
What switch type do most electricians stock on their trucks?
Standard toggle switches for service calls, plus a 10-pack of decorator rockers for remodels. Carry one 20A heavy-duty switch for commercial callbacks. The GE Grounding Toggle and BESTTEN 10-Pack cover 90% of residential jobs.
Do I need special switches for LED fixtures?
Most modern switches handle LEDs, but verify the rating. The BESTTEN decorator switch explicitly lists LED compatibility. For dimming LEDs, you need a dimmer switch—standard switches cause flicker if not rated for low-load electronics.
